I agreeto Idea Enhance core product to meet section 508
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Enhance core product to meet section 508

One question for the producers of documents is how section 508 might limit the mainstream product--website, document, data sets, use of color, dynamic graphics and content, etc. There are reasons that information is conveyed in a variety of formats and media and section 508 should not limit how the core product is developed. Rather section 508 should address how accessible enhancements and supplments are added in. Limiting the core product to satisfy 508 will create resistance among originators of products and result in dissatisfaction among product users.

Submitted by zinkl 1 year ago

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  1. The idea was posted
    1 year ago

Comments (3)

  1. Jim Tobias

    Well, you're right that "originators of products" may object, but I think there's a broad consensus that accessibility regs such as 508 do not really restrict anyone; it's just that they may have to work a bit harder to create elegant, accessible products (by design, not as an afterthought). There are thousands of examples of these, so it's certainly not an unreasonable expectation.

    1 year ago
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  2. zinkl

    Of course, 508 isn't intended to restrict anyone. If you tell originators that they are limited to certain formats, programs, lengths, or media "because of 508", that's unnecessary and will build resentment. 508 compliance should be part of a routine, like making sure the pdf has OCR. That's not an afterthought, that's making it part of the furniture.

    1 year ago
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  3. Community Member

    As a counter point to Zinkl:

    Section 508 has benefits beyond accessibility for those with disabilities. When locations have restricted bandwidth, such as vessels at sea and remote national parks, web page content and multi media are not accessible. However, if designed using 508 standards, the important substance will be conveyed. Also, let's not forget an aging population and the accompanying diminished senses, particulary sight and sound. While visual and sound enhancements can be great, the fundamental goal is to convey substance.

    1 year ago
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